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Being a dad
and an employer both present unique challenges, but there are
similarities in the roles. Challenges notwithstanding, both
jobs can be
very rewarding. I'm a father to a boy and three girls, ages 9 to
15, and a founder and chief executive of a 14-year-old webcasting
company based in New York. For Father's Day this year, here's my
take on the differences and similarities of the two roles.

Differences
1. I don't have to clean up after other people's lunches in the
cafeteria at work.
2. I don't have to play chauffeur with employees.
3. I very rarely have to remind an employee to brush their teeth
or wash their hands
4. I never tell employees to shut off the lights, lower the heat
or close the refrigerator door.
5. My employees already know I don't work for the electric
company.
6. I don't have to remind employees that money doesn't grow on
trees.
7. I don't have to tell employees things a minimum of three times
for things to get done.
8. Employees typically use their inside voices when inside.
9. Although on occasion I might want to, I can't fire my
kids.
10. I will never retire from being a dad.

Similarities
1. You need to listen.
2. You need to lead by example.
3. You need to be loyal.
4. You need to keep your promises.
5. You need to be forgiving.
6. You need to be self-aware.
7. You need to be flexible.
8. You need to be able to admit when you're wrong, and even
apologize.
9. You always need to remember you have been in their
shoes.
10. When out to dinner, you always have to pick up the check.

Fatherhood definitely has had a positive impact on my management
style. I even print out "atta boy" emails we receive from
customers and hang them on the company refrigerator. Smiley face
or gold star optional.